The Variance Report shows any difference between expected and actual usage for both ingredients and prep recipes.
To better understand how prep recipes appear on the Variance Report, refer to the Prep Build documentation.
- Note: If Explode Prep Recipes is ON, variance calculations include individual ingredients from exploded prep recipes. If OFF, variance is calculated at the prep recipe level.
What Variance Means
- A negative variance means less of an ingredient was used than expected. This may indicate that someone is not following recipes or is using incorrect portions.
- A positive variance means more of an ingredient was used than expected. This could be due to:
- Inconsistent recipe adherence
- Poor portion control
- Spoilage or lack of rotation
- Substituting one product for another
Each of these scenarios should be investigated. Variances represent differences from the ideal usage. Identifying and resolving these differences helps reduce waste and improve cost control, putting more money back in your pocket.